And to find out what the local pub means to West Lothian people we took to the streets to see where they choose to socialise.

Student Colin Wilson of Boghall (28) said he enjoys spending his time in West Lothian as well as letting his hair down in Edinburgh.

He said: “I go to Napier University in Edinburgh, so there are lots of good pubs around there.

“But I also enjoy coming back to Bathgate and Livingston where there are plenty of places to go which aren’t too expensive.”

Louis Baird of Armadale said that his favourite places to go are in Bathgate town centre.

He said: “I go out in Bathgate town centre because I enjoy the company.

“I know that some people like to have a drink in the house, but I’ve never enjoyed doing that. I like to be out and about.”

Armadale man, David Swan, said he enjoys going out in his home town.

He said: “I generally like to go out locally. I prefer to do that because I know my way around and it’s easy to get home. Obviously I know lots of people there too, so it’s a good place to get together with them.”

Friends Erin Muirhead and Simone Martin said Bathgate was their favourite place to go.

Erin, from Fauldhouse, said: “I like going out in Bathgate because there’s usually a good atmosphere and it’s a good place to meet up with my friends.”

Simone said she was also happy to stay near to home.

She added: “Bathgate is usually quite busy, so there’s always lots going on.